Press Release

SECRETARY-GENERAL FOLLOWING WITH SORROW TRAGIC DEVELOPMENTS IN BARENTS SEA AFTER SINKING OF SUBMARINE KURSK

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The following statement was issued today by the Office of the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

The Secretary-General has been following with sorrow the tragic developments in the Barents Sea following the sinking of the submarine Kursk. As hope now appears to be fading, his prayers are with the families and loved ones of those on board.

The Secretary-General is heartened by the international cooperation demonstrated in the rescue efforts over the last few days. It is yet another example of how the international community must stand united in the face of disaster and work together to alleviate its consequences.